Colorado Is a “Choice State” for Schools — What That Means for Families Moving Here

Thinking about moving to Colorado? Whether you're relocating for work, a change of pace, or a military assignment, there's a lot to love about life in the Centennial State — and not just the scenery. Colorado is known for its active lifestyle, growing economy, and strong sense of community, but one major bonus that often gets overlooked is this: school choice.

If you're moving with kids, Colorado’s flexible approach to public education gives you more control, even if your move doesn’t give you much say in where you live. That’s especially important for families making fast relocations — like military families — or anyone trying to find the best fit for their child’s needs.

What Is School Choice?

In Colorado, where you live doesn’t necessarily determine where your child has to go to school. As a school choice state, Colorado allows families to apply for their children to attend public schools outside their assigned neighborhood, including across district lines, if space is available.

In other words, just because you buy or rent a home in a certain area doesn’t mean your student is locked into a particular school — and that flexibility can make a big difference when you’re settling into a new place.

What Are My Options?

Colorado offers several types of public education, each with unique benefits:

• Open Enrollment: You can apply for your child to attend a different school within your district (intra-district) or in another district (inter-district). Space availability is the main factor, and most applications happen in late fall or early winter for the following school year — though many schools accommodate mid-year moves, especially for military families.

• Charter Schools: These publicly funded schools operate with more autonomy than traditional public schools and often focus on specific learning styles, disciplines, or philosophies. Admission may be by lottery.

• Magnet Schools: Focused on themes like STEM, performing arts, or international studies, magnet programs offer specialized curriculum and may require an application process.

• Online & Hybrid Schools: Colorado offers several virtual and blended learning models through public districts, great for families who need flexible schedules or are transitioning during a move.

• Homeschooling Support: Homeschool families can access a variety of programs, including district-run enrichment days, extracurriculars, and curriculum support.

What This Means If You’re Moving to Colorado

Whether you’re moving across town, across the country, or being stationed at one of Colorado’s military installations (like Fort Carson, Peterson SFB, Schriever SFB, or the Air Force Academy), school choice gives you options.

Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Start Researching Early: Look into districts and schools as soon as you know you’re moving. Many publish report cards, curriculum details, and virtual tours online.

• Understand Application Deadlines: Enrollment periods vary by district, so check websites or call ahead. Some districts offer rolling admissions or waitlists.

• Reach Out for Support: If you’re military-connected, School Liaison Officers (SLOs) can guide you through local school systems. If not, many districts still have enrollment specialists to help families new to the area.

• Plan for Logistics: If your chosen school is outside your assigned area, transportation may be up to you. Make sure the commute works for your daily life.

• Look Beyond the Zip Code: With open enrollment, you can focus on finding the right fit — whether that means smaller class sizes, a specialized program, or a strong extracurricular culture.

Relocating to a new state brings plenty of uncertainty, but Colorado’s school choice model gives families one less thing to stress about. With the ability to choose the school that best fits your child — regardless of where your home is — you can focus on what really matters: helping your family thrive in a new place.

Whether you're coming to Colorado for duty, adventure, or a fresh start, we are here to help with all of your real estate needs. Don't hesitate to reach out here.